By
Ashineko Ayinya
The delicate dance of politics in Nigeria unravels yet another layer as objections are raised against El-Rufai’s nomination, bringing to light the importance of Senator Sunny Masha Katung’s choices in the red chambers. This narrative draws from the biblical tale of David and Goliath, jostling between the commendable efforts of the underdog and the looming shadow of a once-powerful king. Could this be the acid test against the senator?
While the criticisms levied against El-Rufai’s nomination hold water, it behooves us to also respect the discretionary judgement of Senator Sunny Masha Katung in choosing his battles, akin to Odysseus navigating the treacherous waters of Scylla and Charybdis. The laudable work of House of Justice with Gloria Ballason, wielding her pen as a sword in her writings against the former governor, echoes the biblical story of Judith and Holofernes, an enduring testament to the power of truth and justice. Similarly, the Herculean efforts put forth by the student group are deserving of praise.
Furthermore, in line with Nigeria’s constitutional commitment to diversity, reminiscent of the harmonious symphony of the Corinthian Body, the ministerial appointment ideally should be bequeathed to a representative from Southern Kaduna.
Nonetheless, let us not forget to grant Senator Katung his proverbial ‘Pound of Flesh’. If he is deemed trustworthy enough to bear the mantle of his position, his judgement should surely be held in the same regard. As a senator, he likely possesses a trove of information beyond the reach of the general populace, especially concerning matters of such political weight. His decisions, therefore, should be perceived as informed ones.
This standpoint does not undermine the voice of the public or trivialize the significance of expressing discontent against the senator where necessary – it would at least lend him an ear to the ground. But, let us also acknowledge the Senator’s capability to steer the ship of politics as he deems fit. It is my belief that he carries the interests of his people within his heart, albeit his approach may be more of restitution than seeking retribution.
It is high time we rise, like the phoenix from the ashes, above the malevolence perpetrated by El-Rufai. By transcending the negativity of El-Rufai’s past deeds, we can focus our collective energy on areas where it truly matters.
We must conserve our strength for building and healing our communities, rather than expending it on the ghost of El-Rufai’s misdeeds. Just as the sun eventually rises, illuminating the darkest corners of the night, so too must we look forward to a brighter future, guided by the wisdom and discretion of our chosen leaders.
About the Author
Ashineko Ayinya is a writer, a researcher and a mathematician of Southern Kaduna extraction who was persecuted by El-Rufai and narrowly excaped with his life in 2018. He is presently an internally displaced person and survives the current economic travails in the country through professional writing.
